Hooleys Public House in El Cajon stands out as a vibrant destination that captures the essence of an Irish pub with its hearty food, friendly service, and lively atmosphere. Diner reviews repeatedly commend the generous portions and the diverse menu that features a delightful array of traditional dishes. The corned beef and cabbage dish, along with the famed beer-battered fish and chips, have earned rave reviews, highlighting their authentic flavors and satisfying presentations. The starters, such as crispy bacon Parmesan Brussel sprouts and indulgent cheese curds, set the tone for a meal that feels both comforting and celebratory. Reviewers have also praised the engaging service, with staff like Kat often described as friendly and attentive. The ambiance is enhanced by live music on select nights, creating a lively backdrop for dining. Notably, the brunch offerings, including "BIG" pancakes and delectable drinks, draw crowds eager for a weekend treat. For those looking to unwind, items like the caramel Appletini and the popular tater tots make the perfect accompaniments. Overall, whether you're dropping in for a casual lunch, a hearty dinner, or a fun-filled night out, Hooleys Public House delivers a memorable dining experience marked by flavor, warmth, and community spirit.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers kerbside pickup
Has no-contact delivery
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service
Has fireplace
Has great beer selection
Serves great cocktails
Serves great dessert
Has great wine list
Has live music
Good for watching sport
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves happy-hour drinks
Serves happy-hour food
Serves late-night food
Has private dining room
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves spirits
Serves vegan dishes
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has catering
Has counter service
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has bar on site
Has toilet
Has Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Popular with university students
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Pets
Dogs allowed
Photos
Reviews For Hooleys Public House
Joe Page
May 22,2025
Truth in advertising...the BIG pancakes are huge. I always get great service and I love the food. When it's busy, there is such great energy in the room.
Tony Lopez
May 7,2025
Stopped by for lunch, had the Hooleys Special, Delicious! Kat offered excellent service with a friendly smile. Hadn't been there since 2004, So glad they are still there
Jody Tucker-Banks
May 6,2025
Always great food and they have brunch on the weekends until 2:00. There were six of us and we all got different items and we all were happy! The cheese curds are delicious, but will kill a diet!
Shondra J
Mar 20,2025
Great Irish pub! They offer good food, friendly service, and live music in the bar on some nights. Plenty of seating in the bar and in the dining rooms. Tables and booths are seating options. The menu offers many corned beef options. Their salads are always served fresh and crisp. The Guinness Onion Soup is AMAZING! We have tried many entrees and have not been disappointed. Some favorites include the potato skins with corned beef, the wedge salad, pub salad, prime rib sandwich, and macaroni with corned beef. The portion sizes are hearty and the prices reasonable. There is lots of parking available.
Vixen Gal
Mar 19,2025
My boyfriend and I have been coming for our date nights to Hooley’s recently and have become obsessed! I ALWAYS order the caramel Appletini which is so delicious and very sweet! Be careful with this one as it will get me buzzed super quick. Their 5 Margaritas are okay I won’t be ordering that anymore, but on Tuesday they’re 5 and the tacos are super cheap! My boyfriend had the calamari tacos and he said they were really good! I included photos of the salmon which was delicious and the burger we had was so good! I recommend trying their Mac and cheese it’s so addicting! The tater tots and wings are a must try! Def will be coming in more often and the waiters are so nice! Do NOT get me started on the bread pudding, it’s so yummy and great when still warm even when it’s cold too! Never had any issues with waiting, but it does get busy so come in a bit earlier then you want to get seated! Super close to the theater as well, perfect for any date night!
Grind Time Mom
Mar 7,2025
My experience was awesome The waiter was amazing. The food was very fast and excellent, and I love the atmosphere and the music.
Taigun Sovey
Feb 17,2025
I have been going to the Rancho Hooleys since the day they opened. It's always been great food. The waitresses there are amazing (Shout out to Zoe), they are prompt, and kind even on busy nights.
Eric Edelman
Feb 5,2025
I had the half and half burger. It was fantastic! perfectly cooked. Great flavor. The house mac and cheese were also very good. The service was fast and friendly. We had never been here before and were really impressed with it. We will be back.
Reviews For Hooleys Public House